Jewish Wedding FAQs

Question

What is a Chuppah?

Answer

A chuppah is a canopy under which a couple stands for the duration of their ceremony, traditionally joined by both sets of parents and the officiating rabbi. It represents the new home that the newlyweds will build together, symbolized by the cloth covering and four poles that outline the structure

Question

What is the breaking of the glass?

Answer

As the ceremony comes to an end, the groom (or in some instances the bride and groom) is invited to step on a glass inside a cloth bag to shatter it. It demonstrates that marriage holds sorrow as well as joy and is a representation of the commitment to stand by one another even in hard times.

Question

What does 'Mazel Tov' mean?

Answer

Shouting "Mazel tov!" is one of the most well-known Jewish wedding rituals. Once the ceremony is over and the glass is broken, you will hear guests cheer "Mazel tov!" Mazel tov has a similar meaning "good luck" or "congratulations."

Question

What are the seven blessings?

Answer

The seven blessings are often read in both Hebrew and English, and shared by a variety of family members or friends, just as friends and family are invited to perform readings in other types of ceremonies. The blessings focus on joy, celebration, and the power of love. They begin with the blessing over a cup wine, then progress to more grand and celebratory statements, ending with a blessing of joy, peace, companionship, and the opportunity for the bride and groom to rejoice together.

Question

What is Yichud?

Answer

Following the ceremony, tradition dictates that couples spend at least eight minutes in yichud (or seclusion). This wedding custom allows the newly married couple to reflect privately on their new relationship and allows them precious time alone to bond and rejoice. It's also customary for the bride and groom to share their first meal together as husband and wife during the yichud.

Question

What does the circling mean?

Answer

In the Ashkenazi tradition, the bride traditionally circles around her groom either three or seven times under the chuppah. Some people believe this is to create a magical wall of protection from evil spirits, temptation, and the glances of other women. Others believe the bride is symbolically creating a new family circle.